Integrated geo-ecological assessment of drill cuttings and approaches to their disposal

The study discusses the chemical properties of rock and drill cuttings. Drill cuttings have a negative impact on the components of the natural environment: soil cover, atmospheric air, groundwater. The purpose of the research was a comprehensive study of the chemical characteristics in the system “rock - drilling fluid - drill cuttings” and proposing approaches to the disposal of drill cuttings. When drilling wells, various types of drilling fluids are used, which affect the physical and chemical characteristics of the cuttings. It was established that the water-based salt drilling fluid with the addition of biodegradable polymers contained high values of water-soluble salts, the highest value was observed for chloride ion - 71087.0 mg/kg. The hydrocarbon-based drilling fluid was characterized by a high content of petroleum products, the concentration of this indicator was 9000 mg/kg. The content of heavy metals depended not only on the composition of drilling fluids, but also on their initial content in the rock. Excesses of arsenic in rock and drill cuttings samples relative to the clarkes of microelements in the lithosphere were revealed. The research results make it possible to establish patterns between drill cuttings and the choice of treatment method, which will reduce the consumption of natural resources and create the preconditions for an environmental and economic effect for the regions.